Okukhanako’s Ballad Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]

Unchanging ThingsOku Hanako1rank/position

Unchanging Things

A piano ballad that lets you sink into a wistful mood, as if longing for the summer that has passed.

The singer is Hanako Oku, a singer-songwriter often praised as someone whose “voice alone can move you to tears.” This work centers on the irreplaceable nature of everyday life and feelings that never fade, even as time goes by.

Its message—yearning to reach someone you may never meet again, transcending time and distance—truly strikes the heart.

Included on the single “Garnet,” released in July 2006, it served as an insert song in the feature-length animated film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time, heightening the emotion of its climactic scenes.

It’s a number you’ll want to listen to on a slightly chilly evening at dusk, as you look back on your summer memories.

GarnetOku Hanako2rank/position

Garnet

A signature song by Hanako Oku, chosen as the theme for the smash-hit animated film The Girl Who Leapt Through Time.

Its poignant lyrics and piano tones are captivating, evoking memories of days gone by as if they were right before your eyes.

Oku’s clear, transparent vocals gently permeate the heart.

Though we can no longer meet, the song expresses gratitude for a encounter that made the self stronger, offering not only solace from heartbreak but also the strength to move forward.

Released in July 2006, the song won the Best Theme Song (Film) at the Heisei Anime Song Awards.

For those who want to overcome a painful farewell and step into the future with beautiful memories, this song will gently nudge you forward.

First loveOku Hanako3rank/position

First Love by Hanako Oku

Released in 2010 as Hanako Oku’s 10th single.

It is the ultimate heartbreak song, depicting “after an adult loses a love they genuinely fell for,” and has been praised by many women as deeply relatable.

The piano’s timbre and Oku’s clear, translucent vocals create a ballad that conveys the poignant ache of a broken heart.

wedgeOku Hanako4rank/position

Kusabi (Wedge) by Hanako Oku

A piano ballad by Hanako Oku that quietly embraces the inescapable pain of parting.

Cherished since her indie days and lovingly passed down in her performances, it’s a song that has been adored by fans for many years.

Two shadows lit by streetlights after the last train has gone, a final kiss shared even as they know they’ll never meet again.

Lyrics that portray such helpless scenes are sure to resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.

The song gained popularity through word of mouth and was finally released as a single in July 2015, marking the 10th anniversary of her debut.

It was later included on the album “Prism.” On nights when you’re sinking into sorrow with no way out, why not surrender yourself to this piece and let the tears flow?

petalOku Hanako5rank/position

Hanako Oku / Hanabira (Film “He Won’t Kill, She Won’t Die” Ver.) [Music Video]

This is the theme song used as the main theme for the film “Killing Me and the One Who Won’t Die.” Oku Hanako’s clear, translucent vocals are truly striking! In particular, the beginning features only piano accompaniment, which puts her remarkable talent fully on display.

From the second verse, strings, drums, and a weeping guitar join in, shifting the atmosphere to something more moving.

Christmas NightOku Hanako6rank/position

Hanako Oku / Christmas Night (FULL Ver.) [Lyric Video]

A Christmas ballad by singer-songwriter Hanako Oku released in 2018.

She has sung many love songs—especially heartbreak songs—and this track is another one that paints a truly aching, heart-wrenching story of lost love.

They spent Christmas together until last year, but this year she’s alone…

The protagonist’s lingering attachment and his wish for her to find happiness are deeply moving, bringing you to the verge of tears.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Hane Keisuke

Report a problem

Winter FireworksOku Hanako7rank/position

Winter Fireworks / Hanako Oku [MV]

Okubukako, the queen of heartbreak songs known for her piano and red glasses.

Her winter song paints the sadness and heartache of being told by the guy you secretly love that he likes your friend.

I was dyed in your colors—and then he says the one thing the heroine least wants to hear.

What exactly did he say? This is Okubukako’s unrequited love song, dedicated to all women in love.